Question

what is the formal charge on the nitrogen in the following compound? assume all atoms follow the octet rule and all lone pairs and atoms are shown. a. +1 b. 0 c. -1 d. -2

Explanation:

Step1: Recall formal - charge formula

The formula for formal charge is $FC = V - N - \frac{B}{2}$, where $V$ is the number of valence electrons of the neutral atom, $N$ is the number of non - bonding electrons, and $B$ is the number of bonding electrons.

Step2: Determine values for nitrogen

Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons ($V = 5$). In the given compound, nitrogen has 2 non - bonding electrons (1 lone pair, so $N = 2$) and 6 bonding electrons (3 single bonds and 1 double - bond, so $B = 6$).

Step3: Calculate formal charge

Substitute the values into the formula: $FC=5 - 2-\frac{6}{2}=5 - 2 - 3=0$.

Answer:

B. 0